We Breathe 3 Million Fewer Tons Of Toxins Each Year

September 5, 2014- Actions taken by the EPA under the Clean Air Act have resulted in toxic air emissions dropping “significantly” — in some cases by more than half — since the law was amended in 1990, the regulatory agency told Congress recently.

Since 1990, about 3 million tons of toxins from mobile and stationary sources have been removed from the air every year, according to the report. Emissions of benzene, a pollutant found in natural gas, have dropped in outdoor air by 66 percent, while the amount of mercury from man-made sources like coal plants has dropped by nearly 60 percent, the report said. The amount of lead has decreased the most, by 84 percent since 1990.

“This report gives everyone fighting for clean air a lot to be proud of,” EPA Administrator Gina McCarthy said in a statement accompanying the report. “But we know our work is not done yet. … we are committed to reducing remaining pollution, especially in low-income neighborhoods.”

Click here to read more.

Carnow Conibear and Associates is a demonstrated leader in the occupational and environmental health professions since 1975. To find out more, click here or call us at (800) 860-4486.